Smithsonian Books

Richard Kurin

RICHARD KURIN is a Smithsonian Distinguished Scholar and Ambassador-at-Large. A former Fulbright fellow with a Ph.D. from the University of Chicago, he is the author of Hope Diamond: The Legendary History of a Cursed Gem and Reflections of a Culture Broker: A View from the Smithsonian. Kurin has been awarded the Smithsonian Secretary's Gold Medal for Exceptional Service and the American Folklore Society's Botkin Prize for lifetime achievement.

Stories from this author

How Larger-Than-Life Theater Actress May Yohe Overcame Fainting Spells to Find Success on the Stage

She launched a whirlwind musical theater career on the strength of her “true as steel” singing voice

Richard Kurin | May 15, 2025